The onset of the modern era in Indian art is widely believed to have occurred in the mid-19th century, with the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi housing pieces from this period onwards. While the Impressionists are typically seen as the starting point for modern art in the West, the Bengal School of Painting is commonly regarded as the beginning of modern Indian art.

The hallmarks of contemporary or modern art include a sense of creative freedom, an embrace of an eclectic approach that prioritizes artistic expression from an international rather than regional perspective, a heightened emphasis on technique that is both abundant and exceptional, and the emergence of the artist as a unique individual.

Evolution of modern painting in India

• By the end of the 19th century, Indian painting had declined from its roots in miniature painting, with only the "Bazar" and "Company" styles, as well as various folk arts, remaining active.
• The Western concept of naturalism, championed by Raja Ravi Verma, then emerged.
• Abanindranath Tagore attempted to counteract this decline by founding a new school of painting, the Bengal School of Painting, also known as the Renaissance School or the Revivalist School. Initially nostalgic and romantic in tone, it remained influential for over three decades.
• The end of World War II brought about new cultural and political circumstances, which had a profound impact on artists.
• This period coincided with India's independence, offering unprecedented opportunities for modernization and engagement with the wider world, particularly the West. Indian artists absorbed these new ideas, including impressionism, expressionism, and post-expressionism.
• One notable feature of contemporary Indian painting is the newfound importance of technique and method. Form is now considered a separate entity that can overshadow the content of a work of art.
• As individualism has become the dominant ideology among artists, a new challenge has arisen: a lack of connection between the artist and the people.

More on Bengal school of art

The Bengal School of Art, also known as the Bengal School, was an art movement and style of Indian painting that emerged in Bengal during the early 20th century and spread throughout the Indian subcontinent during the British Raj.

Origins of the Bengal School of Art:

• Traditional Indian painting styles had fallen out of favor during the British Raj as they did not appeal to British collectors.
• Alongside the European techniques and subjects taught in art academies, Company Paintings were heavily promoted due to their appeal to British sensibilities.
• Company Paintings depicted Indian subjects, such as local flora, traditional clothing, and rituals, through European painting conventions and perspectives.
• Rather than celebrating Indian cultural traditions, they often exoticized them.
• The Bengal School arose in response to such imagery, drawing inspiration from Mughal, Rajasthani, and Pahari styles to portray elegant scenes of daily life and distinctly Indian traditions.

The Main features of Bengal School of Painting

• Rooted in Indian Tradition: The Bengal School of Art draws heavily on Indian cultural heritage, as evident in its subject matter and themes.
• Emphasis on Indian Themes: The school's focus on Indian deities such as Mahakali, Shiva Parwati, Krishna and Gopis highlights its strong connection with Indian culture.
• Influenced by Ajanta Paintings: The Bengal School's artistic style is influenced by the art of the Ajanta Caves, as seen in its use of rhythm, grace, and harmony.
• Delicate Lines: The school's use of delicate, rhythmic lines is reminiscent of the Ajanta Paintings.
• Softness and Rhythm in Figures: The figures depicted in the Bengal School of Art are graceful and delicate, with a pleasing rhythmic quality that evokes a sense of softness.
• Attractive Colour Scheme: The school's paintings feature a beautiful and attractive colour scheme, achieved through the use of a wash technique and subdued, non-gaudy colours.
• Influenced by Mughal and Rajasthani Schools: The Bengal School of Art also shows influences from the Mughal and Rajasthani Schools of art in certain instances.
• Skillful Use of Light and Shade: The Bengal School's masterful use of light and shade creates a softness and depth that contributes to the overall impression of the paintings.
• Impressive and Indian Themes: The subject matter of the Bengal School is impressive and distinctly Indian, featuring historical, religious, and literary themes.